By Angelina Frost on January 28, 2025
White Tiger Taekwondo and Martial Arts has been a cornerstone of the Raleigh community since its inception in 1996. Established by Master Rondy McKee, a trailblazer who earned the affectionate nickname “White Tiger” during her time with South Korea’s prestigious Korean Tigers demonstration team, the school continues to thrive under the leadership of Michael Champitto. Here’s what makes this martial arts school a standout in the Triangle area…
At White Tiger, inclusivity is key. The school welcomes students as young as 2.5 years old, provided they meet basic milestones like communication skills and potty training. Programs extend to adults and even seniors, offering a nurturing environment for individuals to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Michael explains, “We don’t have a strict ideal student. What matters is the willingness to learn and embrace discipline. Martial arts at White Tiger are about personal growth and self-defense, not aggression.”
White Tiger Taekwondo primarily serves Raleigh and its surrounding communities within a 25-mile radius. Families and individuals come not just for martial arts but also to be part of a supportive, close-knit community. To foster even stronger connections, the school offers family discounts, making martial arts training a shared experience that strengthens family bonds.
To make this family-budget-friendly, a second family member receives a 25% reduction in tuition, while the third and beyond enjoy 50% off their tuition. As White Tiger’s tagline reminds us, “The family that kicks together sticks together.”
One standout initiative at White Tiger is the White Tiger Community Cares Program, an anti-bullying campaign. This program provides free seminars to local organizations like the Girl Scouts and area schools, emphasizing conflict resolution and self-confidence.
In addition to combating bullying, White Tiger offers special discounts to actively support active and former military personnel, first responders, and their families.
White Tiger has earned too many awards and recognitions to list in this article (see link below), but the true measure of their impact is in the lives of their students. In interviewing for this article, Michael shared the story of a young girl who seemed timid and standoffish. Michael—an experienced martial artist himself—recognized some behaviors that prompted him to find out more about the girl from her aunt.
When he learned that the girl had a background of abuse, Michael was able to approach the girl’s training differently and provide an even safer space for her in the context of the dojang (martial arts school). As a result, this young woman not only achieved her black belt, but blossomed into the funny, outgoing human being she’d always been. This type of lasting impact lights up his life.
Taking over the school in late 2019, Michael faced significant hurdles, including the pandemic. Downsizing ahead of COVID proved to be a prescient move, enabling the school to weather the storm. Today, as it continues to rebuild, White Tiger leans heavily on community support and word-of-mouth referrals to grow its student base.
“We’re not just teaching martial arts,” Michael says. “We’re helping people find their confidence, their strength, and their purpose.”
Looking ahead, Michael envisions White Tiger as more than a self-sustaining school—he sees it as a hub for personal growth and transformation. His ultimate goal is to ensure every student, young or old, emerges from their training with skills and lessons that extend far beyond the dojang.
If you’re in the Raleigh area and looking for a place where martial arts meets community, White Tiger Taekwondo and Martial Arts is the perfect destination. From Tiger Tots to seniors, there’s something here for everyone. Enquire with White Tiger for special pricing packages and current deals.
Visit White Tiger Taekwondo to start your martial arts journey today. Also find White Tiger on Facebook and Instagram! View our awards slideshow.
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